A guide to international education in the UAE

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Education in the UAE

Parents educating their children in the UAE can be confident in the many benefits of their children learning in an international school 

One of the major questions that ex-pats looking to relocate to the UAE find themselves asking before considering a move is “Are the schools here as good as at home…?” and the answer is a resounding “Yes!”. 

There are some great schools in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai which offer children a wide array of opportunities to excel academically, to explore their creativity and to make a wide circle of new international friends. 

Not only can the schools here match up to those in other countries but there are also some long-term benefits for children educated in an international environment which will give them an advantage in today’s increasingly globalized world. 

 

A Global Outlook 

 

Walk into any international school in the UAE and it is not uncommon to find out that they have over one hundred different nationalities on their roll. This means that children grow up being familiar with so many other cultures and languages, making friends from all over the world and acquiring a cultural sensitivity that will be invaluable as they grow up and move around the globe. 

Choice 

 

In the UAE there are over 17 different curriculums on offer, so there is probably more choice here for families than in many home countries. Whether you are looking for IB, A Levels, US High School Diploma or the French, German or even a bilingual curriculum, there is something for everyone. With so many schools to choose from you can take into consideration location, facilities and after school activities when choosing the best fit school for your child. 

 

Globally Recognized Qualifications 

 

One of the exciting aspects of studying in the UAE is that students are encouraged to think ‘360’ about their university choices, whether that be the UK, US, Canada, Europe, Australia. The plus point about the international schools in the UAE is that the schools offer exams that are globally recognised for University entry. The most popular choice in the UAE is still the British Curriculum with GCSE’s and A Levels but IB is also a strong contender recognised by Universities and employers alike. 

 

Facilities 

 

With so many schools that have been built in the last 10 years, many schools in the UAE have the latest in technology, and the most modern facilities in terms of sport, performing arts spaces, science labs and wired-up classrooms. This gives children unprecedented opportunities to experience learning in states of the art facilities. 

For many teachers working in an international school is now seen as an important part of their career development. This means the UAE attracts some of the most talented and ambitious young teachers who are keen to work with children who want to learn and in an environment that gives them access to top facilities. 

 

Confident Children 

 

Research shows that children who have been educated in an international environment have better soft skills and are more creative and independent learners. Studying in an international environment means that students have to be flexible and adaptable and learn to make friends across a diverse cultural group. 

All in all, parents educating their children in the UAE can be confident in the many benefits of their children learning in an international school, as it can definitely give students an edge when it comes to university and job applications and being part of a global community. 

 

For further news on education, visit Yalla Abu Dhabi Life 

Image source Canva

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